This study investigates Algerian potential to benefit from knowledge networks abroad. It proposes efforts to invest in these networks and transform them from a loss into a gain, especially in light of Algeria’s deepening brain drain. While it might be difficult – due to globalization –to stop this brain drain entirely, it has become possible to alleviate the damage and think about a way to embrace the emigrated skills in the development of the country of origin. This could be possible through outreach to the knowledge diaspora, in line with many successful examples from South and East Asia and Latin America.